Best Colognes
Cologne is integral to your overall style, and makes a statement about your personality. Every man should have several colognes in his collection. After all, versatility is the sign of a competent man. Having a good cologne can give you the confidence and stamina you need to get through the day, or a special event.
Some men believe all you need is a good soap, and that’s it. Soap is important, of course, but it’s also important to have a signature scent. Wearing a scent that suits your personality will ensure you come across as a well-rounded man who is comfortable in his skin. And, of course, wearing the right cologne will make you more attractive to the ladies.
If you want to finally start using cologne, or are growing bored with your current collection, it’s time to head to the store to begin the search. To find the cologne that suits you, it’s crucial to know which ones are worth shelling out for.
We’ve done the research, and have uncovered the top-rated, best-selling colognes for men. These are the 35 best-smelling colognes you need to try out at least once in your lifetime.
1. Atlantis – Blu Atlas
The most delectable, longest-lasting, unique-smelling cologne on the market is Atlantis by Blu Atlas. It’s often sold out due to high demand, so we highly suggest getting this affordable, 100% natural cologne while you can.
This versatile cologne will ensure you smell phenomenal all day long, and on any occasion. Looking for a cologne you can wear no matter the season? Atlantis by Blu Atlas will be the No. 1 choice to satisfy your fragrance needs.
Top Notes: Clary Sage, Patchouli, Bergamot.
Fragrance Family: Aromatic, Earthy.
2. Luna Rossa Black – Prada
A sexy man needs a seductive, alluring cologne to match, and that’s where Luna Rossa Black by Prada comes in. This intense cologne is for men who are full of passion and have a natural suaveness. Fresh, sexy and crisp, Luna Rossa Black by Prada smells devilishly divine.
Top Notes: Orange Essence, Lavender.
Fragrance Family: Warm, Spicy.
3. Costa Azzurra – Tom Ford
You’ll be teleported back to your favorite beach vacation when you spray on Costa Azzurra by Tom Ford. Inside this gorgeous, eye-catching bottle, an invigorating scent is ready to make you smell inviting and fancy. Cyprus, lemon and oakwood notes envelop your senses, immediately winning you over.
Top Notes: Lemon, Cypress, Oakwood.
Fragrance Family: Earthy, Woody.
4. Polo Deep Blue – Ralph Lauren
If you’re a fan of aquatic fragrances for men, Polo Deep Blue by Ralph Lauren will blow you away from the first spray. This addictive cologne with its fresh notes of mango and cypress should be in every man’s collection.
Top Notes: Deep Ocean Accord, Hawaiian Green Mango, Cypress Oil.
Fragrance Family: Fresh.
5. L’Eau d’Issey Pour Homme – Issey Miyake
Grab a bottle of L’Eau d’Issey Pour Homme by Issey Miyake and start counting how many compliments come your way after you apply some of this alluring cologne. This is a clean, potent fragrance with spicy top notes and a satisfying masculine undertone.
Top Notes: Cinnamon Nutmeg, Yuzu, Sandalwood.
Fragrance Family: Warm, Woody, Spicy.
6. Armani Code – Giorgio Armani
Nothing will summon your inner masculinity like Armani Code by the veteran perfumier Giorgio Armani. Every man needs to sample the power of this classic scent at least once in his life.
Top Notes: Tonka Bean, Guac Wood, Olive Tree Blossom.
Fragrance Family: Earthy, Woody.
7. Hero – Burberry
The definition of being a hero is being admirable and strong. A hero is someone who can handle anything. If that sounds like you, purchase some Hero by Burberry. Heroes come in all shapes and sizes, but they all need a stellar cologne.
Top Notes: Bergamot, Black Pepper, Juniper, Cedarwood.
Fragrance Family: Earthy, Woody.
8. Uomo Born in Roma – Valentino
Easily one of the best-smelling colognes for men, Uomo Born in Roma by Valentino promises to make you the most compelling person in the room wherever you go. Turn heads with this alluring, slightly floral fragrance.
Top Notes: Vetiver, Ginger, Violet.
Fragrance Family: Spicy, Warm.
9. Bergamote 22 – Le Labo
Lovers of bergamot will be obsessed with Bergamote 22 by Le Labo. Get all the bergamot you can handle with this reinvigorating, calming men’s cologne. Need a self-esteem boost? A spray of Bergamote 22 by Le Labo will take care of that straightaway.
Top Notes: Bergamot, Musk, Vetiver, Grapefruit, Cedarwood.
Fragrance Family: Citrus, Woody, Spicy.
10. Coach for Men – Coach
Classic, simple, elegant: Those are just a few of the adjectives that describe how it feels to wear Coach for Men by Coach. This cologne is sure to last you all day. There’s no need to worry about having to reapply every few hours.
Top Notes: Cardamon, Vetiver, Nashi Pear.
Fragrance Family: Woody.
11. L’Homme à la Rose Eau de Parfum – Maison Francis Kurkdjian
The roses in L’Homme à la Rose Eau de Parfum by Maison Francis Kurkdjian make for an exceptional cologne. This riveting cologne puts a masculine spin on traditional floral notes.
Top Notes: Grapefruit, Rose Oil, Clary Sage.
Fragrance Family: Floral, Woody.
12. Black Cedarwood & Juniper Cologne – Jo Malone
Expect to sigh with happiness every time you spray on Black Cedarwood & Juniper Cologne by Jo Malone. The cedarwood in this cologne will shine through in every spray.
Top Notes: Cumin, Juniper, Cedar, Chili Pepper.
Fragrance Family: Woody, Spicy.
13. Homme – Dior
Smelling amazing every day is as easy as buying a bottle of Homme by Dior to add to your cologne collection. Once you let this enchanting cologne do its magic, you’ll be wondering where this has been all your life. When you wear this cologne, you’ll command the attention of everyone you encounter.
Top Notes: Cedar, Vetiver, Patchouli.
Fragrance Family: Earthy, Woody.
14. Le Male Le Parfum – Jean Paul Gaultier
Are you looking for a scent that will make you stand out? Le Male Le Parfum by Jean Paul Gaultier is the fragrance for the man who lights up every room he enters.
Top Notes: Cardamom, Lavender, Vanilla.
Fragrance Family: Woody.
15. Eternity for Men – Calvin Klein
Simple yet potent, Eternity for Men by Calvin Klein is the perfect men’s cologne, no matter the season or the occasion. This refreshing scent leaves an enticing trail, and will have beautiful ladies sidling up to ask you what you have on.
Top Notes: Mandarin, Lavender, Sage, Sandalwood, Amber.
Fragrance Family: Aromatic, Earthy.
16. Terre d’Hermès Eau Intense Vétiver – Hermès
Fans of perfume mainstay vetiver can rejoice: Terre d’Hermès Eau Intense Vétiver is for only the most religious users of vetiver-based colognes. If you’re among the acolytes, this heady cologne will swiftly become your go-to fragrance.
Top Notes: Sichuan Peppers, Bergamot, Violet.
Fragrance Family: Earthy, Woody.
17. Dirty Grass – Heretic
This is perhaps the most unusual fragrance for men on this list, infused with CBD oil, black pepper and lemon, and leavened with bright notes of vetiver. You can be assured you’re getting a cologne that will make you stand out with this scent from Heretic.
Top Notes: Lemon, Black Pepper, Vetiver, Hemp.
Fragrance Family: Earthy.
18. Sauvage Eau de Parfum – Dior
Do you prefer your cologne strong, with a dash of spice and a hint of freshness? Sauvage by Dior will be your best bet. Meant for the men who always ensure they are well put together, this addictive cologne deserves to win awards based on how phenomenal it smells.
Top Notes: Pepper, Bergamot, Amberwood.
Fragrance Family: Woody, Earthy.
19. Light Blue Pour Homme – Dolce & Gabbana
One of the most popular colognes for men, Light Blue Pour Homme by Dolce & Gabbana is always trending due to its alluring scent. If you want to smell sexy 24/7, there’s no need to look further than Light Blue Pour Homme.
Top Notes: Aquatic Notes, Juniper, Mandarin, Oakmoss.
Fragrance Family: Fresh.
20. No. 01 Blue Sage & Tonka Men’s Cologne – Goodfellow & Co.
Affordable and long lasting, No. 01 Blue Sage & Tonka Men’s Cologne by Goodfellow & Co. delivers an irresistible, charming fragrance that will make you want to spray it all around your house. Though it’s affordable, this cologne lasts a long time. You can expect this cost-effective cologne to linger as long as the most expensive cologne on this list.
Top Notes: Sage, Tonka Bean.
Fragrance Family: Fresh.
21. Imagination – Louis Vuitton
In order to smell the best, you need the best-smelling cologne, and Imagination by Louis Vuittion is one of the few colognes that make you smell like heaven. This is as close as it gets to perfection in a bottle, and will look elegant in any man’s grooming cabinet.
Top Notes: Black Tea, Cedar, Ginger, Bergamot, Cinnamon.
Fragrance Family: Fresh, Spicy.
22. Herod – Perfums de Marly
If you’re looking for something unusual but intense, try Herod by Perfums de Marly. This is an exotic, spicy and undeniably masculine scent.
Top Notes: Tobacco Leaf, Cinnamon, Pepper, Incense, Musk.
Fragrance Family: Woody, Spicy.
23. Blu Mediterraneo Cipresso di Toscana – Acqua di Parma
Ah, the crisp, fresh scent of the ocean! That’s precisely what a bottle of Blu Mediterraneo Cipresso di Toscana will evoke. This cologne is for the man who prefers fresh rather than spicy fragrances.
Top Notes: Orange, Elemi, Star Anise Accord.
Fragrance Family: Aromatic, Citrus.
24. Tobacco Vanille – Tom Ford
When we say there’s only one cologne that can make you smell completely irresistible, we mean it. Tobacco Vanille by Tom Ford reigns as the sexiest and most addictive cologne for men currently on the market.
Top Notes: Vanilla, Ginger, Tobacco Leaf.
Fragrance Family: Warm, Spicy.
25. The One for Men – Dolce and Gabbana
Dolce and Gabbana has done it again with their men’s cologne, The One for Men. Easy to differentiate from any woman’s fragrance, The One for Men makes sure you always smell the way a gentleman should: clean, calm and powerful.
Top Notes: Cardamom, Tobacco, Ginger, Cedarwood.
Fragrance Family: Warm, Spicy.
26. Bad Boy – Carolina Herrera
Goodies-goodies need not apply when it comes to Bad Boy by Carolina Herrera. Release your alter ego after spritzing on some of this charming cologne. If you’re a man who’s a bit rough around the edges (or who wants to come across that way), pick up a bottle of this.
Top Notes: Grapefruit, Clary Sage, White Pepper, Tonka Bean, Cocoa.
Fragrance Family: Warm, Spicy.
27. Aqua Viridi – Sigil
It’s amazing what you can accomplish with a couple of pumps of Acqua Viridi by Sigil. Confidence is 25% mindset, 25% what you wear…and 25% how you smell! This cologne will ensure you smell 100% irresistible. Who doesn’t want to smell like the sexiest man in the room?
Top Notes: Blue Cypress, Seaweed, Khella, Petitgrain.
Fragrance Family: Fresh, Herbal.
28. Bleu de Chanel – Chanel
Be careful before trying Bleu de Chanel by Chanel. We guarantee you’ll become hooked on this cologne from first sniff. For the most tantalizing cologne available, choose this option from one of the oldest and most respected brands in the business.
Top Notes: Sandalwood Cedar, Citrus Accord, Labdanum.
Fragrance Family: Earthy, Woody.
29. Dark Rum – Malin+Goetz
Dark Rum by Malin+Goetz is a potent, alluring scent, aimed at the man who likes the finer things in life. Its rich, dense notes of rum and leather will sweep you back to a smoky speakeasy in the Roaring Twenties.
Top Notes: Bergamot, Anise, Plum, Leather, Rum, Vanilla.
Fragrance Family: Warm, Spicy.
30. Y Eau de Parfum – Yves Saint Laurent
A staple among discerning men, Y Eau de Parfum by Yves Saint Laurent smells as elegant as the bottle looks. This seductive cologne taps into your inner god, and makes you feel like the powerful man you are. An instant confidence booster, and compliment magnet, this cologne should be on any man’s shelf.
Top Notes: Cedarwood, Lavender, Geranium.
Fragrance Family: Earthy, Woody.
31. A Midnight Stroll – Gucci
The scent of nighttime summer air is what you get with A Midnight Stroll by Gucci. You’ll be seduced by this one-of-a-kind men’s cologne, which offers tantalizing mystery and a hint of transgression.
Top Notes: Incense, Cypress, Cade Wood.
Fragrance Family: Woody, Aromatic.
32. Misfit – Arquiste
Elegantly spicy, Misfit by Arquiste will ensure you stand apart from your male co-workers. This is a versatile fragrance that can be worn both during the day and at night.
Top Notes: Bergamot, Lavender, Patchouli, Tonka Bean.
Fragrance Family: Earthy.
33. Spicebomb Infrared – Viktor & Rolf
Spice is the name of the game when you choose Spicebomb Infrared by Viktor & Rolf. Never underestimate the power of a cologne that includes fiery notes of tobacco and habanero peppers.
Top Notes: Tobacco Accord, Habanero Pepper Accord, Red Berries.
Fragrance Family: Warm, Spicy.
34. 1 Million – Paco Rabanne
1 Million by Paco Rabanne knows exactly what a man should smell like: alluring, provocative and charming. Power through the day with 1 Million, and smell unbelievably sexy while you do so.
Top Notes: Frosted Grapefruit, Peppermint, Blood Mandarin, Tonka Bean, Patchouli, Musk, Cinnamon Bark.
Fragrance Family: Fresh, Spicy.
35. Eros – Versace
You can never go wrong with a bottle of the classic Eros by Versace. This cologne takes freshness to a whole new level. If you want to make buying your next cologne simple, just pick up Eros by Versace.
Top Notes: Mint Leaves, Vanilla, Orange Blossom.
Fragrance Family: Warm, Spicy.
Everything You Need to Know About Finding Your Signature Scent
Picking out your signature scent as a man should be an enjoyable experience. You’ll know you found a good one when the compliments start to roll in.
Is it a good idea to utilize the cards they give out at stores?
It isn’t a good idea to use the cards they give out in stores. Although they are meant for you to be able to sample multiple fragrances without needing to spray yourself, the cards don’t allow you to get the full-bodied effect of the scent. Spraying the cologne you want to sample on your skin is the most accurate way to get a feel for how a cologne smells.
Are expensive colognes worth the price tag?
The cheap versus expensive cologne argument comes down to personal budget and preference. Some people won’t be able to rationalize spending $375 on a 3.5 oz. bottle of cologne, while others drop that sum without hesitation.
It’s crucial to sample every cologne you’re interested in for a full 24 hours before deciding you like it. If you’re going to spend your hard-earned cash on a scent, you want to ensure it doesn’t fade away quickly.
Expensive colognes can be worth the price tag when you find one that is long-lasting. However, it’s perfectly reasonable to stick with a lower budget for men’s cologne if you find something that smells amazing and lasts you all day.
What are the most highly rated colognes for men on this list?
A few colognes on our list are of higher quality than others. The standout fragrances are:
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Atlantis – Blu Atlas
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Eros – Versace
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Tobacco Vanille – Tom Ford
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Armani Code – Armani
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Polo Deep Blue – Ralph Lauren
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Dark Rum – Malin & Goetz
These colognes have the most positive reviews out of all 35 best-smelling colognes you need to check out. Try out any of these top-rated colognes to see if one or two may be a good fit for you.
We especially recommend Atlantis by Blu Atlas for a cologne that is potent, but is not going to burn a hole in your wallet.
Why does a cologne smell different on my buddy than it does on me?
Everyone has a different body chemistry, and if you put Tuscan Leather by Tom Ford on three different men, each man would smell slightly different. That’s why finding a signature scent is a journey every man has to make on his own.
Is it smart to build a cologne collection, or just stick with one?
It’s always a good idea to build your own cologne collection. The collection doesn’t have to include 50 bottles; a small collection of several of your favorite colognes will suffice.
Having a cologne collection ensures that if you get bored of wearing one fragrance, you’ll always have another option. Many men have one cologne for daytime and one cologne for nighttime.
If you’re thinking of starting a collection, ensure you choose colognes that express different sides of your personality, and that are suitable for each season of the year.
Is there a way to make my cologne last longer?
Yes! Making your cologne last longer means you need to pay attention to how you’re applying cologne, and when you’re applying it.
The best time to apply cologne is after a shower, when your skin is warm. Heat helps fragrance stay on longer. However, cologne should always be applied to dry skin. Wait at least five minutes after getting out of the shower to give your skin time to fully dry.
What do top notes have to do with colognes for men?
Top notes are an important part of choosing the right cologne for you. Top notes are the initial scent you get from a cologne. Common top notes in colognes for men are cardamom, bergamot, tobacco, leather, musk and patchouli.
What are some tips and tricks for finding a good men’s cologne?
Diving into the world of cologne can be intimidating, so we have compiled a list of things to keep in mind when you’re in the market for a new men’s cologne.
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Note that some colognes are great year-round, while others are best suited for warmer or colder weather.
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Take heed of what others are saying online about the cologne.
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When sampling colognes, apply one spray of each cologne on each wrist. If you’re feeling feisty and want to test out a couple more, use both inner elbows.
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Pay attention to the environment you are keeping your cologne in. A dry, cool environment is best for cologne.
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Always apply your cologne to completely dry skin.
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Don’t rub in your cologne after application; just let it air dry.
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Don’t spray your cologne in the air, then walk into the mist – it’s a waste of cologne.
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Apply cologne to the places on your body where you retain the most heat, such as the inner elbows, neck and wrists.
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Remember that you want your cologne to be noticeable, but not overpowering.
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If you need to reapply, do it sparingly.
No matter what cologne you decide on, we’re positive it’s going to smell phenomenal on you. With these best-smelling colognes for men, you’ll be certain to receive compliments on a daily basis.
